On Trust, Dialogue, and Conflict Transformation in the Justice System

As part of the CourtUP School of Court Administration, we had the opportunity to delve into topics rarely discussed in the judicial context — yet crucially important: trust, communication, conflict, and approaches to resolving it.

Together with experienced mediators Iryna Dotsenko and Luiza Romanadze, participants explored the idea that conflict is not merely a problem, but a potential point of growth. We envisioned scenarios where tensions among court staff simmer for years, or where citizens do not feel safe to speak openly in courtrooms. And we asked: How can this be changed?

During the practical sessions, we explored the power of empathy, active listening, and shared intention. We examined how a team can grow not through fear, but through mutual respect. How a single well-chosen word — delivered with a pause, care, and meaning — can sometimes do more than the most detailed procedural regulation.

Participants practiced communication tools, analyzed real-life cases, and discussed the role of mediation within the justice system. Because mediation is more than just a standalone procedure — it is an approach that builds a different culture: a culture of dialogue.

The event was organized by the All-Ukrainian Association of Court Employees with financial support from the European Union under the EU Project Pravo-Justice, implemented by Expertise France in Ukraine.

The participation of the Ukrainian Academy of Mediation was made possible through the implementation of the “CONSENT: Strengthening the Role of Alternative Dispute Resolution in Ukraine with a Focus on Mediation” project, funded by the European Union.